River's Dark Chocolate

River's Dark Chocolate brings a richer, moodier note to the garden, and she feels perfectly at home among the dusky end of the dahlia palette. Dark mahogany, with neatly arranged, fully double petals and a polished geometric profile.

Bloomed at Hedge & Alchemy in our 2026 garden.

📖 From the journal of Hedge & Alchemy

Gothic beauty. I love the deep, dark burgundy petals against those dark stems, and the form is excellent.

📋 Cultivar Notes

• Breeder / Hybridizer: Eugene Kenyon
• Year of Introduction: Unknown
• Origin: USA
• Form: Formal Decorative (FD)
• ADS Classification Number: 4009 (M / Miniature, up to 4 inches / Formal Decorative / Purple)
• Cut Flower Status: Good. The form lends itself well to bouquet work; vase life can vary with harvest stage and conditions.
• Show & Exhibition Flower Status: Potentially. Confirm the current ADS listing and class before entering.

🌸 In the Garden

• Bloom: Blooms are reported at approximately 2.5 inches. The formal decorative flowers are described as dark mahogany, with neatly arranged, fully double petals and a polished geometric profile.
• Plant Height & Habit: Approximately 4 feet tall, with an upright, branching habit. Stake as needed for height and bloom weight.
• Growing Notes: Usually around 4 feet tall. Pinch early for branching and give solid support once the plant is carrying flowers.
• Tuber Yield: Not yet tracked at Hedge & Alchemy.